Ivan Soldo Regrets Port Adelaide Move, Seeks Trade to St Kilda Amid Ruck Challenges

Ivan Soldo, who recently joined Port Adelaide, has expressed regret over his choice to play for the team just months after making the switch. The former Richmond ruckman is now seeking a trade to St Kilda during the upcoming trade period.

Soldo's Regret and Desire for Trade

Sam Edmund from AFL Trade Radio revealed that Ivan Soldo regretted his move to Port Adelaide almost immediately after making the decision. According to Edmund, Soldo wanted to leave before even participating in a game for the club. Now, he has officially requested a trade, with St Kilda being his preferred destination. This request follows just a year after he was traded from Richmond to Port Adelaide in exchange for third-round picks.

Competition for Ruck Position

Upon joining Port Adelaide, Soldo aimed to secure the No.1 ruck position. However, he soon found himself competing against newly acquired player Jordon Sweet and Dante Visentini, who made his impression late in the season. This competition, compounded by injury and form challenges, led to Soldo being placed in a less favorable position within the team.

Concerns Over Soldo's Fit at St Kilda

Soldo's choice of St Kilda as his preferred club has raised eyebrows, given that the team already boasts Rowan Marshall as their leading ruckman. Analysts, including Kane Cornes from 7AFL, have speculated on how Soldo's addition could affect the team's dynamic in the forward line, which has faced difficulties. The potential adaptation of Marshall playing a forward role, despite his primary position, presents an interesting challenge for the Saints' coaching staff.

Predictions for Future Forward Line Dynamics

Kane Cornes highlighted that although Rowan Marshall is not a traditional forward, he has shown the potential to become a viable target. However, it remains to be seen how effective this combination of two genuine ruckmen will be within the Saints' strategy. With Max King needing support, the team may need to adapt and creatively utilize both Soldo and Marshall on the field.

Criticism of Ruck Dynamics in Other Teams

Cornes also criticized Fremantle's ruck combination of Sean Darcy and Luke Jackson, noting the challenges that arise when two key players share ruck duties without effective coordination. While optimistic about St Kilda's approach, he cautioned that Marshall must remain engaged in his role and not restrict himself to a single position on the field to avoid conflicts similar to those seen in Fremantle's ruck lineup.

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